Overview

Urine cytology is a laboratory test designed to look for abnormal and cancer cells in urine samples. It occupies a pivotal role in the evaluation and monitoring of patients suspected or confirmed to have urologic cancers, especially bladder cancer, upper tract urothelial carcinoma, and sometimes prostate or kidney cancer. By subjecting the urine samples to microscopic analysis, expert doctors can identify malignant cells shed from the lining of the urinary tract.

Why is Urine Cytology Performed?

For bladder cancer detection, or for the detection of a recurrence post-treatment.
To examine patients presenting with blood in urine (hematuria).
To differentiate between benign conditions and malignancy in urinary tract disorders.
For monitoring high-risk patients with a history of urothelial carcinoma.
To substantiate the findings of other diagnostic procedures, such as cystoscopy, CT urography, and urine-based biomarkers.

Before the Test

Usually, no special preparations are necessary.
To increase accuracy, the patient may need to provide multiple urine specimens, usually three times on different days.
Early morning urine is generally avoided since the cells can degenerate overnight.

What Happens During the Test?

The patient will provide a clean-catch urine sample in a sterile container.
The sample will reach the laboratory, where it is centrifuged and stained.
A cytopathologist examines the sample under a microscope, looking for abnormal or malignant cells.
Results might take a few days, divided into:-
Negative - No independent cancerous cells existed.
Atypical/Suspicious - Abnormal cells are present but not clearly considered malignant.
Positive - Cancerous or malignant cells were found.

Advantages & Risks

Advantages:

Non-invasive and painless.
Helpful in detecting high-grade cancers.
Track the recurrence of patients who underwent treatment earlier.

Risks:

Less sensitive to low-grade tumors (may miss them).
Some results may remain inconclusive, necessitating further investigations like cystoscopy or biopsy.

After the Test

If the outcome is negative but the symptoms persist, further testing, such as imaging or cystoscopy, may be advised.
Usually, a confirmatory biopsy becomes essential after a positive finding.
The physician will incorporate urine cytology findings into the clinical history and other diagnostic techniques for selecting a treatment approach.

FAQs on Urine Cytology

Is urine cytology painful?

No, this is a non-invasive test requiring only a urine sample.

Does urine cytology on its own confirm cancer?

Not always. While it adequately detects high-grade tumors, low-grade tumors go undetected. Hence, a biopsy and imaging studies are necessary for confirmation.

How long does it take to get results?

Usually, the results take about 2-5 days, depending on how busy the laboratory is.

Is urine cytology only for bladder cancer?

It is the most efficient for bladder and urothelial cancers. Still, it could also provide supportive information on other urologic cancers.

How often is the test repeated for cancer patients?

For those with a history of bladder cancer, urine cytology might happen every few months, together with cystoscopy, to check for recurrence.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Urine Cytology in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Urine Cytology in Lucknow, India. Our experienced uro-oncologists use advanced tools to give accurate results, quick diagnosis, and better long-term care. We offer the best evaluation and treatment support with effective and affordable pricing, making the Urine Cytology cost suitable for patients seeking high-quality urology care in Lucknow, India.